Cross-Border Recycling Ecosystem
Blockchain-powered tracking of recyclable materials across MENA borders
Client
Multinational Waste Management Consortium
Industry
Waste Management & Sustainability
Year
2021
Countries linked on one blockchain network
Tons of recycled materials tracked
Reduction in documentation processing time
The Challenge
The recycling industry in the Middle East faces unique challenges, particularly when materials cross national borders. Our client, a multinational waste management consortium, was struggling with:
- Lack of transparency in the recycling supply chain, making it difficult to verify the origin and journey of materials
- Complex and time-consuming documentation processes when materials crossed borders between MENA countries
- Difficulty in proving compliance with different national regulations and circular economy standards
- Limited ability to authenticate the quality and composition of recycled materials, affecting their market value
These challenges were hindering the growth of cross-border recycling initiatives and limiting the potential of the circular economy in the region.
Our Solution
emtribe developed a blockchain-powered Recycling Materials Ecosystem that provides end-to-end tracking and verification of recyclable materials as they move through the supply chain across borders.
Key Components:
- 1
Blockchain Ledger
A distributed ledger that records every transaction and movement of materials, creating an immutable audit trail.
- 2
Smart Contracts
Automated agreements that execute when predefined conditions are met, streamlining cross-border transactions.
- 3
Mobile Scanning App
A field application that allows workers to scan and update material status using QR codes and RFID tags.
System Architecture:
Material Registration
At collection points, materials are categorized, weighed, and assigned a unique digital identity on the blockchain.
Transport Tracking
As materials move between facilities and across borders, their journey is recorded with timestamps and location data.
Processing Verification
Processing facilities confirm receipt and transformation of materials, updating their status on the blockchain.
Regulatory Compliance
The system automatically generates documentation required by different countries' regulations.
Quality Certification
Testing results and quality certifications are linked to material batches, enhancing their market value.
End-User Verification
Manufacturers can verify the origin and journey of recycled materials they purchase.
"The blockchain recycling ecosystem developed by emtribe has revolutionized how we manage cross-border material flows. We now have unprecedented visibility into our supply chain, and our customers have greater confidence in the provenance of our recycled materials."
Chief Innovation Officer
Multinational Waste Management Consortium
The Results
The implementation of the blockchain-powered recycling ecosystem has delivered significant benefits:
Linked 5 countries on one blockchain network
Creating a unified system across UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait.
Tracked over 10,000 tons of recycled materials
Providing complete visibility from collection to reuse.
Reduced documentation processing time by 75%
Automating paperwork that previously took days to complete.
Increased supply chain transparency by 90%
Enabling stakeholders to verify material origins and processing history.
Improved material value by 25%
Certified recycled materials command higher prices in the market.
Enhanced regulatory compliance
Simplified adherence to varying national requirements and international standards.
Beyond these quantifiable results, the system has contributed to the growth of the circular economy in the region by:
- Building trust between suppliers and buyers of recycled materials
- Reducing fraud and misrepresentation in the recycling supply chain
- Providing data for sustainability reporting and ESG initiatives
- Creating a model for other regions to follow in tracking material flows
Technology Stack
Hyperledger Fabric
Blockchain Platform
Node.js
Backend
React Native
Mobile App
PostgreSQL
Database
Docker
Containerization
Kubernetes
Orchestration
RFID/QR
Tracking Technology
Azure
Cloud Infrastructure